The e-commerce license application process may vary depending on the chosen jurisdiction. However, the general steps are as follows:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Required documents for the application include:
- Company name
- Business activities
- Passport or visa/entry stamp copy
- Shareholding ratio
- Contact details of all shareholders (phone, email, address)
- Photographs (if required by the free zone authority)
Step 2: Contact the Relevant Authority
Submit your documents to the relevant free zone or mainland authority.
Once the documents are received, the application enters the initial approval stage.
Most jurisdictions require an initial payment to start the process.
E-commerce license fees generally start from 5,750 AED.
Processing times:
- Free zones: 3–7 days
- Mainland: 1–2 days
Step 3: Wait for License Issuance
After approval, the license is issued and digital documents are sent.
Some free zones may request original documents, which are delivered later if required.
Step 4: Visa Application
If your selected e-commerce license package includes visas, the visa process begins after obtaining the immigration card.
Which Free Zones Issue E-Commerce Licenses?
The main free zones offering e-commerce or related licenses in the UAE include:
- Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC)
- Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)
- Dubai South
- Fujairah Creative City
- Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ)
- Sharjah Media City (SHAMS)
- Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP)
Mainland E-Commerce Licenses
Dubai
eTrader License (issued by Dubai Economic Department – DED)
- Allows commercial activity via social media channels
- Only available to UAE and GCC citizens residing in Dubai
- Single-owner structure only
- No physical shop or visa eligibility
General Trade License
- Allows online business activities
- Starting cost: from 30,000 AED
Abu Dhabi
Tajer Abu Dhabi License
- Issued for online trading activities
- Available for UAE nationals, GCC citizens, and residents
- Supports structures such as:
- Single-owner companies
- Limited Liability Companies (LLC)
- Add-on online activity to existing trade licenses
Sharjah
Eitimad License
- For social media and home-based businesses
- Only for UAE nationals residing in Sharjah
- Minimum age requirement: 18
Ras Al Khaimah
Virtual Trade License
Suitable for online retail, IT services, consulting, real estate brokerage, and technology-based professional activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to start an e-commerce company?
Starting packages begin from 5,750 AED.
Is office space required?
In free zones, a virtual office is usually sufficient.
How long does setup take?
3–7 days in free zones, 1–2 days in mainland setups.
Which are the best free zones?
DMCC, DWTC, and Dubai South are among the most preferred.
Are there penalties for operating without a license?
Yes. Illegal activity may result in fines and website shutdown.
Is VAT registration mandatory?
Yes, if annual revenue exceeds 375,000 AED.
Difference between e-commerce and commercial license?
- E-commerce license: online sales and digital channels
- Commercial license: physical stores and general trading
Can I run multiple businesses under one license?
No, each business requires a separate license.
